Safe alternative for pupils

Ardgowan School principal Ryan Fraser (left) and Waitaki District Mayor Gary Kircher outside the...
Ardgowan School principal Ryan Fraser (left) and Waitaki District Mayor Gary Kircher outside the school, where a new pathway will soon be built. PHOTO: WYATT RYDER
Ardgowan School’s dream of a safe pathway to keep pupils off a dangerous road will soon be realised.

There is about 3km of road between the top of Eden St and the school, but almost no children cycle or walk that trip.

Ardgowan Rd has little roadside space, blind corners and a 60kmh speed limit, which is frequently breached.

For two years, the school has tried to have a safe alternative installed.

It will soon be a reality, with work scheduled to start on January 8.

The pathway will sit on the east side of the road and span from the top of Eden St to the school.

Principal Ryan Fraser said the pathway would make the area much safer and accessible for the children.

At present, one pupil cycled to school, but they were accompanied by a parent.

The feedback he had received was parents and pupils wanted the option to walk or cycle, but did not feel safe doing so on the road.

He had heard from parents who wanted to drop their children off at the top of Eden St with their bikes so they could do the rest of the trip alone.

The road’s speed limit was dropped from 80kmh to 60kmh in 2020, which had helped, but it was concerning seeing so many people go faster than that during school hours, he said.

He was thankful for the active police presence on the road which caught some of the speeders.

Council staff had visited the school to get feedback from pupils directly.

Mayor Gary Kircher said the plan was fantastic.

"It’s been a long-term aim of the school community to have a safer walking and cycling route and we’re pleased to be able to provide it for them."

The pathway will cost about $161,000, 57% of which is funded by NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi.